Crac des Chevaliers and Swifts

90 x 60cm

Oil on Canvas

Commissioned

Crac des Chevaliers is a Crusader castle in Syria and is one of the most important medieval castles in the world. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built by the Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem from 1142 to 1271. With further construction by the Mamluks in the late 13th century, it ranks among the best-preserved examples of the Crusader castles.

Sadly in recent years the castle has suffered extensive damage.

This painting was commissioned by a previous client, who had visited the castle before the recent troubles in Syria.
Screaming swifts were seen and heard over the castle, while calls to prayer echoed across the valley. The castle sits high on a hill in a vast patchwork landscape. This was a challenging but thoroughly enjoyable commission where I could immerse myself into the landscape and sights, sounds and smells of Syria.